Bradford Employers Can Access Funding by Hiring Apprentices

Government incentives and funding schemes aim to support local businesses in recruiting apprentices

Employers in Bradford have access to various financial incentives and government funding to support the recruitment and training of apprentices. These measures are designed to help businesses develop skilled workforces while addressing local skills shortages.

Available Financial Support for Employers

Several funding opportunities are available to employers who take on apprentices, particularly those aged 16 to 24. Key schemes include:

• Young Apprentice Payment: A payment of £1,000 for employers who recruit apprentices aged 16 to 18, or those aged 19 to 24 with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP) or who are care leavers. This is available to both levy and non-levy employers.
• New Apprenticeship Hiring Payment: Up to £2,000 for non-levy employers recruiting new apprentices aged 16 to 24, starting on or after 1 October 2026. The payment is made in two instalments when apprentices reach specific milestones.
• Youth Jobs Grant: A £3,000 grant for employers recruiting young people aged 18 to 24 who have been claiming Universal Credit and actively seeking work for at least six months. The vacancy must be approved under the scheme and the young person referred through Jobcentre Plus.
• Foundation Apprenticeship Employer Incentive: Up to £2,000 for employers recruiting apprentices onto eligible Foundation Apprenticeships, supporting talent development from entry-level to skilled careers.

Training and Employment Cost Reductions

For many employers, apprenticeship training costs are fully covered by government funding. Non-levy employers recruiting apprentices aged 16 to 24 can benefit from 100% funding for training and assessment, subject to funding band limits.

Additionally, employers may reduce employment costs through National Insurance relief. Employers pay no Class 1 National Insurance contributions for apprentices under 25 who meet earnings thresholds and HMRC conditions.

Benefits Beyond Financial Support

Apprenticeships offer employers the opportunity to develop a workforce tailored to their business needs. Employers often report improved staff retention, increased productivity, and better succession planning as outcomes of apprenticeship programmes. Apprentices also bring new perspectives and energy to the workplace.

Local Support and Contact Information

Bradford College provides assistance to employers interested in recruiting apprentices, offering guidance on available programmes and funding. Businesses can contact the Bradford College Apprenticeships Team to discuss options and support.

For more information on apprenticeship opportunities and employer incentives, visit the Bradford College website.